OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – State leaders are speaking out after the Trump administration cut over $1 billion in funding for energy projects in Washington, including one in Whatcom County.

The U.S. Department of Energy announced on Thursday, Oct. 2 that it’s cancelling nearly $8 billion in contracts for hundreds of projects across 16 states.

That includes funding for 11 projects in Washington, including the Pacific Northwest Hydrogen Hub.

My Bellingham Now previously reported that the project, which sought to create a regional network of hydrogen producers, included a key site in Ferndale.

Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright says much of the cancelled funding was approved in the final months of the Biden administration and were found to be an unreasonable investment.

Congresswoman Suzan DelBene called the cuts “politically motivated,” saying President Trump targeted Democratic states that did not vote for him.

“President Trump’s campaign of political retribution continues, and hardworking Washingtonians are now part of the collateral damage. This politically motivated claw back of funds will result in significant job losses and increased utility bills in our state,” DelBene said.  

She claims the lost funds will cause the state to lose hundreds of jobs and spike residents’ utility bills.

The funding recipients have 30 days to appeal the department’s decision.